HIV & Drug Use

HIV & Drug Use

HIV – or human immunodeficiency virus – is a virus that infects the body’s immune system and can cause a disease called acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). This reduces the body’s ability to fight off infections and can be fatal if left untreated.  Learn more about HIV at CDC.gov.

What causes an HIV infection?

HIV is spread from one person to another through:

• Exchange of sexual fluids during unprotected vaginal or anal sex
• Exchange of blood through sharing needles or other drug use equipment
• Blood-blood exposure through injuries such as accidental needle sticks
• From mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding

How can I prevent an HIV infection?

• Use condoms during vaginal and anal sex.
• Do not share needles or other equipment (cottons, cookers, water, etc.) with others.
• Cleaning out a used needle with bleach will reduce, but not eliminate, the risk of infection. Read the CDC’s guidance on cleaning syringes.
• Start taking PrEP, a once-daily pill that can prevent HIV. In Ohio, there are programs that make PrEP available at little to no cost. Learn more about PrEP at OHIV.org.
• After a possible exposure to HIV, you can take PEP, a course of medication that can prevent an HIV infection. PEP must be started within 72 hours of exposure to be effective. Learn more about PEP at OHIV.org.

How do I get tested for HIV?

People who may be at high risk for HIV, including people who inject drugs, should get tested at least once a year.

Depending on the type of test, an HIV test may detect antibodies, viral proteins, or the virus itself. A test might be performed on blood drawn from the arm, blood from a finger prick, or a sample from an oral swab. Most rapid HIV tests can detect an infection 30-90 days after an exposure occurs.

Visit OHIV.org to find a free HIV testing site near you. Ohio residents can also order a free at-home HIV test.

What should I do if I have an HIV infection?

If you have recently been diagnosed or are living with an untreated HIV infection, it is important that you seek care. There is treatment available called antiretroviral therapy (ART) that allows people living with HIV to live long, healthy lives.

There are many programs available to help with the costs and barriers associated with care. Visit OHIV.org to find help near you.

If you live in Franklin county and need assistance finding care for HIV, you can complete a request to be contacted by our Health Navigator

HIV & Drug Use | Hep-C & Drug Use | Other Conditions & Drug Use | Overdose Prevention & Response | Substance Use Disorder Treatment